Children’s feet are more sensitive and softer than adults’ feet as the bones are still growing and not completely formed. Therefore, damage from external factors e.g. shoes that are very loose or too tight can easily occur. In this article, Below are a few foot care tips for children that parents can try at home. Read along!

Teaching your kids about proper hygiene is always a good practice. Make sure they wash their feet with antibacterial soaps every day and let them dry well between toes in order ​​to prevent bacterial or fungal infections that may build up. Moreover, shoes need to be kept and cleaned often as well.

Cutting nails in the right way can prevent ingrown nails in toddlers and children. Try to cut the straight edge of the nail and avoid erosion into the side because long nails can dig under the skin which leads to foot discomfort.  

Exercise the ankle and foot muscles regularly is a good way to maintain muscle strength and stimulate blood flow to the toes. Starting the routine by taking them to walk daily around 5 to 10 minutes can make a big difference. Even better, this habit will make children be more physically active when they get older. 

It is very important to encourage children to eat nutritious food and develop healthy eating habits during their early years of life due to the fact that eating healthily can affect their health in the long run. In order to promote the healthiest feet, make sure your child’s diet has enough sources of calcium, vitamin D, C, and B on daily basis. 

Toddlers aged 9 months to 3 years should wear shoes that are breathable because their feet get perspired heavily. At this age, toddlers can go and walk freely, but in a protected area such as indoors. 

For 9-18 months children, wearing high-top shoes with leather or canvas ties that cover both ankles will stay on the feet better and more secure than low-top shoes. During this age, children spend a lot of energy when walking. Make sure that the shoes you will buy for them are lightweight.

For school-age children, there are many options to choose from such as school shoes, athletic shoes, hiking shoes, sandals, boots and wellies for winter, etc. You may look for flexible, reasonable priced shoes that have enough room for growing feet. 

Conclusion

With the five tips mentioned above, if your child has symptoms of plantar fasciitis, corns, blisters or other foot and nail conditions, consulting with a podiatrist can help your child to stay active as well as lower the risk for foot fractures and other injuries.